This Is Gen Z’s Answer to an Expensive Upholstered Headboard — And I Wish I’d Found It Sooner

I’m not one for gimmicky or even wonderfully weird home decor products because, chances are, you won’t actually use them — and then these things just end up taking up space until you donate or discard them. But when I was browsing the PB Teen website and saw the Heritage Headboard Pillow, a little lightbulb went off in my head. It’s not often that I see bedroom items I haven’t seen before, but admittedly I’m a little out of the dorm decor game — and that appears to be where this trend originated. 

Here’s the thing, though: Actual headboards are pretty expensive, especially the nicely padded upholstered ones, even when you’re hacking their design. For a dorm room, first apartment, spare bedroom, or even a space where you might want to invest in an upholstered bed frame one day but are currently waiting for “the one” (and maybe the funds?), headboard pillows are ingenious. 

Headboard pillows are literally oversized cushions shaped like headboards that are cheaper and, in some cases, cozier than true headboards, thanks to their generous cushioned fill. If you have a simple metal bed frame, they’re a total upgrade from having no headboard at all, and they’ll only set you back anywhere from $30 to $150ish dollars (I’ve even seen a few for under $20!). 

They come in a wide variety of colors, and some even have cute whimsical shapes, just like more expensive furniture headboards. And the best part? They’re incredibly cushy — more so than many real headboards — which makes them perfect for reading while sitting up in bed or binge-watching your favorite show. They’re also easy to toss to the side if you don’t want yours taking up space while you’re sleeping. You can even use one with a headboard for extra comfort. I can’t see much of a downside here, to be honest.

I went ahead and curated an assortment of headboard pillows for you. You’ll find so much variety below in color, shape, price point, and design that there should be something for every aesthetic and budget if you want to try this practical (and pretty) trend.